3G Network Sunset FAQs 

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What is the U.S. 3G network sunset and how does it affect my OnStar subscription as an OnStar Member driving in the U.S.?

Many Chevrolet,® Buick,® GMC® and Cadillac® vehicles on the road today use OnStar hardware, which leverages cellular networks for connectivity. As U.S. cellular carriers transition to 4G and 5G connectivity, certain vehicles may experience issues that prevent voice services. As an OnStar Member living in Canada, you may be impacted by the U.S. 3G network sunset when driving in the U.S. In 2021, OnStar began working with AT&T on network updates and started executing over-the-air software updates to ensure Members were not impacted by the network transition. 

Which GM vehicles are impacted by the U.S. 3G network sunset?

In the U.S., the 3G network sunset will impact certain 2015 model year and newer GM vehicles.

When will the U.S. 3G network sunset occur?

The U.S. 3G network was discontinued in February 2022. 

Do I need to take any actions following the U.S. 3G network sunset?

OnStar addressed the U.S. 3G network sunset by working with AT&T to make necessary network updates. All impacted vehicles received a network update to protect them from the U.S. 3G sunset, and OnStar will continue to deploy over-the-air software updates throughout 2022 to ensure an optimal experience for Members. 

Do I have to do anything to request over-the-air software updates?

No. You do not have to request any future over-the-air software updates. Depending on your vehicle, you may have already received the software update automatically or a prompt asking you to accept the software update. 

Will I have to pay for the over-the-air software update?

Members with an active, connected vehicle will receive an over-the-air software update. The update does not require a paid plan. 

What if I am having issues connecting to OnStar following the 3G network sunset?

While all impacted vehicles received a network update, a small percentage of vehicles may experience an issue connecting to OnStar while traveling in the U.S. These Members will not be able to use voice services when they push the blue OnStar button or the red Emergency button.  

 

If you press your red Emergency button or Automatic Crash Response* is triggered, the Advisor will be able to receive your contact information and vehicle location. The OnStar Advisor will then attempt to call you back using the phone number on file. For any calls that do not have voice services and Automatic Crash Response is triggered, OnStar will automatically request emergency services be sent to your vehicle’s location. 

What if I cannot get ahold of OnStar during an emergency?

If you are unable to get in touch with OnStar during an emergency, you should contact 911 immediately. 

When will this issue be resolved?

OnStar is actively working with AT&T to explore solutions for this issue. Updates will be communicated at a later date. 

How should I contact OnStar while this issue is being resolved?

Until the voice services issue is resolved, you can use the OnStar Guardian™ app* to contact OnStar. Within the OnStar Guardian app, you’ll have access to the blue OnStar button, the red Emergency button and Roadside Assistance* from the app’s home screen. The OnStar Guardian app also offers Mobile Crash Response, which uses smartphone sensors to detect a crash and alert an OnStar Emergency-Certified Advisor.* 

You can also speak with an OnStar Advisor by calling 1.888.4ONSTAR.

How do I get the OnStar Guardian app?

The OnStar Guardian app is included with the OnStar Safety & Security Plan. Members can download the Guardian app from the App Store* or Google Play*. If you do not own a GM vehicle, it is $15/month plus tax after a 30-day trial.

How can I learn more about the OnStar Guardian app?

You can learn more about the OnStar Guardian app here.

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